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How much can your AC cool your house? It’s an interesting question, and it’s one you may have asked yourself at some point. The AC has a maximum, of course: you know you can’t get it as cold as the inside of a freezer, and the thermostat has a low-end setting (often around 60°F). But what is the AC truly capable of doing?
The reason we’re addressing this question is more than just to sate people’s curiosity. Understanding the limits of an air conditioning systems’ cooling capacity will help you know how much to rely on it and how much you can push it—and if you should even push it.
The Temperature Differential
One of the key factors in understanding your air conditioner’s limits is knowing about the temperature differential, also known as the temperature split. This term refers to the difference between the temperature of the air entering the AC unit and the temperature of the air blowing out of it. Typically, a well-functioning air conditioner will have a temperature differential of about 20°F. This means if the air going into your AC is 80°F, the air coming out should be between 60°F and 65°F.
Avoid Setting Your Thermostat Below 68°F
While it might be tempting to set your thermostat to a lower temperature during the sweltering summer months, this can put extreme stress on the air conditioning system. Most HVAC professionals, including those of us at Peaden, recommend keeping your thermostat at a minimum of 68°F. Here’s why:
- Efficiency drops: Air conditioners are designed to operate within the temperature differential. Pushing them beyond this range can cause a significant drop in efficiency. The harder your AC has to work to reach a lower temperature, the more energy it consumes, leading to higher utility bills.
- Wear and tear: Constantly running your AC at lower temperatures can lead to faster wear and tear on its components. This can result in more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan for your unit.
- Humidity issues: Your AC does more than just cool the air. It also removes humidity. When set too low, the system might not run long enough to effectively reduce indoor humidity, leading to a clammy and uncomfortable environment.
Tips for Extreme Heat
When the mercury rises in summer, your AC will have to work harder. Here are some tips to help you avoid pushing the AC past the temperature differential and into a risky zone:
- Use fans: Ceiling fans and portable fans can help circulate the cool air throughout your home, making it feel cooler without overburdening your AC.
- Close blinds and curtains: Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly increase the indoor temperature. By keeping blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, you can reduce the heat load on your AC.
- Avoid heat-generating activities: Cooking, using the oven, or running the dishwasher during peak heat hours can add to the indoor temperature. Try to schedule these activities for cooler parts of the day or use alternatives like a microwave or outdoor grill.
- Maintain your AC: Regular maintenance, such as changing air filters, cleaning coils, and scheduling professional tune-ups, can keep your AC running efficiently and prevent unexpected breakdowns during heatwaves.
Remember, if you ever have concerns about your system’s performance, Peaden is here to help—we’re your pros when it comes to air conditioning in Panama City.